For anyone with an iPad Pro or a newer iPad model, Apple Pencil is hard to beat. The optional device is a great way to create art or even take notes, using several features not available for any other stylus. This is thanks to Apple’s understanding of both the hardware and software parts of the tablet equation.
But many iPad owners still use older tablets or are looking for a cheaper option to add a new level of utility to their experience. So we’re highlighting five great Apple Pencil alternatives that are compatible with many iPad models.
Looking for Apple Pencil alternatives? Check out these top stylus options that offer comparable features and functionality for your iPad. Discover the perfect tool for your creative needs!
Here’s a summary of some of the best alternatives to the Apple Pencil, along with their key features:
- Logitech Crayon: Known for its perfect synchronization with iPad devices, the Logitech Crayon offers a stylish design and a battery life of around 7 hours. It’s an active stylus that connects via Bluetooth and is widely regarded for its high compatibility with iPad models.
- Adonit Note+: This stylus is equipped with tilt technology and boasts 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity. It features 2 smart buttons for additional functionality, making it a great choice for artists and designers. Like the Logitech Crayon, it’s an active stylus with Bluetooth connectivity.
- Meko: A passive stylus that doesn’t require charging or connecting to the device. It’s compatible with all touchscreens and offers two interchangeable tips: a disk tip for precision and a sensitive fiber tip for more general use. It’s an affordable choice, especially for those who don’t need advanced features like pressure sensitivity.
- Targus Slim Stylus: Designed for large-screen touch devices, this stylus doesn’t require charging. It features a 6mm rubber tip that is gentle on screens and is especially suited for note-taking, drawing, or web browsing. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable for extended use.
- OASO: This stylus comes in a stylish metal housing and is compatible with all touchscreen devices. It features a magnetic-coated stylus cap and a replaceable disk stylus tip. The set includes a leather pouch, and like the Meko, it does not require a battery.
When choosing an Apple Pencil alternative, consider factors like compatibility with your device, grip, accuracy, pressure sensitivity, and cost
1. Logitech Crayon
Logitech Crayon offers many features similar to the Apple Pencil, but at a more reasonable price. The stylus works with 11-inch iPad Pro, 12.9-inch iPad Pro, 6th generation and later iPad, 3rd generation iPad Air, and iPad mini 5.
You don’t need to worry about pairing the stylus. Press the power button and you will be good to go. Pastel also features some of the same technologies found in Apple Pencil. This means that any Apple Pencil compatible app will also work with the Logitech option.
If you need a thicker or thinner line as you draw, simply tilt the stylus. The smart tip adjusts the thickness of the line based on the exact angle at which it is held. The handheld rejection technology will also make the iPad only record the stylus instead of any input from your hand.
Perfect for any age, the stylus is made from lightweight material and its flat shape will ensure it won’t roll off a desk and get lost. The built-in battery offers up to 7.5 hours of use on a single charge. And to help conserve battery life, Crayon shuts down after 30 minutes of inactivity. You can charge it with a regular Lightning cable, something any iPhone or iPad user probably has lying around.
2. Adonit Note +
Adonit created iPad styles long before Apple Pencil, and Adonit Note + has several great features. Just like Logitech Crayon, it works with 11-inch iPad Pro, 12.9-inch iPad Pro, 6th and later iPad, 3rd generation iPad Air, and iPad mini 5.
The stylus is compatible with a number of note-taking and drawing apps. You can customize both shortcut buttons on the stylus to quickly access functions such as clear, undo or redo. While drawing, the stylus can support up to 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity.
It also supports a natural title feature that allows you to create a shadow effect when using certain brushes. It even features natural palm rejection. A single charge provides up to 10 hours of stylus use. You can charge it with the included USB-C cable. In a pinch, a five-minute charge will give you an hour of use.
3. Wacom Bamboo Duo
Wacom created input devices long before iPhones and iPads hit the market. Wacom Bamboo Duo is a stylus for an iPad or iPhone, but it also lets you go analog with the built-in ballpoint pen. And Bamboo Duo requires no power, so it’s compatible with any touchscreen device.
On the stylus side, the smooth carbon fiber tip with a mesh end is fully replaceable. The tip of the pen is compatible with standard D1 ink refills. The triangular design is made for ergonomics and makes the stylus feel close to hand during use.
When on the go, the magnetized cap stays securely on the pen and also fits into an iPad cover.
4. MoKo Active stylus pen
Anyone on a budget looking for a great stylus for both writing and drawing should check out the MoKo Active Stylus Pen . One end of the stylus features a 1.5mm thin metal tip that provides a realistic pen feel when writing on the screen of most newer iPad and iPhone models. To do this, the stylus uses a built-in battery that can charge in about an hour.
Provides up to eight hours of continuous use and automatically shuts off after 30 minutes of inactivity to save energy. The other end sports a soft rubber tip for battery-free use, which works on any touchscreen. A built-in clip allows it to fit into a tablet case or pocket while on the go.
5. Neat Cosmonaut Study
Don’t be fooled by the size of the Neat Cosmonaut Studio . While it looks more like a dry marker than a thin pen, the stylus features a solid aluminum core and soft rubber exterior. The stylus tip is firm and responsive on any iPad or iPhone touchscreen.
The larger size makes the stylus a perfect choice for anyone who wants to let their kids have a twist by writing or coloring. It can also be used by those who have a hard time grasping smaller alternatives. There is no need to charge the stylus and it is compatible with any app.
The best alternatives to Apple Pencil
With one of these stylus options, almost any iPad user can unlock a new level of productivity.
Regardless of whether you’re using one of these iPad note-taking apps , channeling a creative side while drawing, relaxing with an adult coloring book or something else, either of these choices should definitely help out.
